Mumbai, August 1: Anshuman Gaekwad's "dedication, resilience, and unparalleled love" for the game were fondly recalled as tributes poured in for the former India player and coach, who died after a lengthy battle with blood cancer. Gaekwad, who also served Indian cricket as a selector, passed away on Saturday night in Vadodara. He donned the national jersey in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs. The demise was mourned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and bigwigs of Indian cricket. Member of the 1983 World Cup-winning side and current BCCI chief Roger Binny, who was a one-time teammate of Gaekwad, said the cricketing community will miss him. Anshuman Gaekwad Dies: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, Sourav Ganguly Offer Condolences As Former India Cricketer Passes Away at Age 71.

"His dedication, resilience, and love for the game were unparalleled. He was not just a cricketer but a mentor and a friend to many. The cricketing community will miss him dearly, and his contributions will always be remembered," said Binny in a statement.

Gautam Gambhir Tweets on Anshuman Gaekwad

Former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh had a close relationship with Gaekwad, having made his international debut in 1998 when the latter was the team coach.

Harbhajan Singh Pays Tribute to Anshuman Gaekwad

Prime Minister Modi condoled the death of Gaekwad and said he had made immense contribution to Indian cricket.

Narendra Modi Tweet on Anshuman Gaekwad

In his condolence message, Home Minister Amit Shah said Gaekwad "enhanced" Indian cricket with his skills.

Amit Shah Pays Tribute to Anshuman Gaekwad

BCCI secretary Jay Shah termed it a "profound loss". "A true servant of Indian cricket, he will be remembered for his courage, wisdom, and dedication to the sport. His contribution to the game has been significant, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy," said Shah in a BCCI statement.

The BCCI added that Gaekwad faced the best bowlers in the world without flinching one bit.

"Known for his solid technique and firm determination, he showed steely resolve while facing some of the finest spells of fast bowling during a time when protective gear was minimal," the body stated.

Gaekwad is best remembered for his brave 81 at Jamaica in 1976, where he stood up to a ferocious bowling attack on a tough pitch, and his gritty 201 against Pakistan at Jalandhar in 1983, where he batted for 671 minutes. He also had a stellar domestic record, having featured in over 200 first-class games in which he scored over 12,000 runs, including 34 centuries and 47 fifties.

"His strategic acumen and deep understanding of the game earned him immense respect from players and peers alike. Never hesitant to take up challenges, he donned different hats and seized every opportunity to serve Indian cricket," the BCCI said in its condolence message.

The BCCI had recently disbursed Rs one crore for the medical expenses of Gaekwad, who was getting treated at the Kings' College Hospital in London before being brought back home. Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja too conveyed his thoughts about Gaekwad and remembered him as "gallant" person. Anshuman Gaekwad Dies: Former Indian Cricketer and Head Coach Passes Away at Age 71 After Long Battle With Cancer.

"Deeply saddened by passing of Anshuman Gaekwad. An affable, polished gentleman, he was my late brother's buddy which made me fond of him!! Fought gallantly against cancer and gave it his all - bit like his batting," said Raja.